In order to battle the many problems associated with long distance care for relatives and the associated costs, caregivers need to set up a system of care management. Initially, we recommend they begin with a formal assessment and work up by a senior care manager. This nurse would assess the needs of their loved one and could arrange neccesary services such as home health, social work, or cleaning service that helps maintain the senior person’s daily life style. Once the services are in place the care manager will assist you in maintaining the system and teach you the importance of maintaining constant contact with these third parties.
We also suggest caregivers keep any documents related to their finances and medical history up-to-date and in order. An emergency information document that includes the contact numbers of the formal network caregivers, the doctors, lawyers, neighbors, and anyone else that is regularly in contact with the senior loved one is a must. The loved one should have put all their financial paperwork in order including wills, power of attorney, bankers, and health care proxies.
Lastly caregivers should schedule regular visits to the senior person’s home in order to check for signs of trouble. Obvious signs of trouble include change in personal hygiene, condition of their house or apartment; build up of trash and mail, empty medicine containers and unfilled prescriptions. A visit with grandchildren or other family members can be important to lift the spirits and help maintain mental health.